ORRIS ALBERTSON

Orris E. Albertson 1933 ~ 2011 Orris Earl Albertson passed away at home, humor and dignity intact, satisfied with his full life, and surrounded by love on Earth Day, Friday, April 22, 2011. He died from acute myeloid leukemia, the final stage of myelofibrosis. A proponent of education and research, Orrie donated his body to the University of Utah Department of Neurobiology and Anatomy. Orrie was born on March 5, 1933 in Aberdeen, Washington, to Irvin Earl Albertson and Margaret (McNamara) Albertson and raised in nearby Hoquiam along with his three sisters, Peggy, Pat and Bonnie. It was on that small farm that Orrie fostered a lifelong love of fishing, nature, animals, and hunting. Orrie received his master's degree in Civil Engineering in 1957 from the University of Washington. He had an iconic 53-year career as a process engineer in the wastewater industry. Noted for his brilliance, Orrie authored 25 patents and was the recipient of many prestigious industry awards. But it was Orrie's heart that created the lifelong bonds among colleagues and friends. Cherished for his generous spirit that inspired one's best and his eagerness to share knowledge, Orrie always brought his best to the table. He thrived on challenges, loved a good debate, championed those who worked for him, and lived the motto "work hard, play hard." Orrie's love of nature drew him to "retire" in La Barge, Wyoming, where he continued to work, so deep his passion for his profession, and curiosity and determination to solve wastewater problems. He married Bertha Hillevi Nyberg with whom he remained steadfast friends after 42 years of marriage. Together they raised four children. He later married Margret McEwan and continued another lasting friendship after seven years of marriage. Orrie is survived by two sisters, Pat (Barb) and Bonnie (Stan); four children, Michael, Orrie (Nella), Brian (Jeanne) and Lisa (Kurt); five grandchildren, Tamir, Gregg, David, Jimmy, and Danielle; and three great-grandchildren. A Celebration of Life is planned for Friday, May 20, 2011 in Utah. Please visit www.OrrisEarlAlbertson@muchloved.com for details and to share your memories of this great man who enriched so many lives and contributed immeasurably to our knowledge and environment. In lieu of flowers, please consider a donation to the UW Civil Engineering Fund (details on much loved web site) or MPN Research Foundation at www.mpnresearchfoundation.org.